Measurement and Modeling of Amplitude Scintillations on Low-Elevation Earth-Space Paths and Impact on Communication Systems

Amplitude scintillations occurring on low-elevation earthspace paths can be large enough to significantly degrade the quality of satellite communications links at -band and higher frequencies. This paper presents measurements of amplitude scintillations on low-elevation (7.1° and 8.9°) satellite downlinks at -band. The statistical distributions of scintillation amplitude and rms intensity are approximated using the Moulsley-Vilar model [1]. An analytical approximation of this model is presented and is shown to be an easy means of predicting system outage time due to scintillations. Theoretical estimates of the average bit error rate for a digital satellite link subject to scintillation fading are presented for NCFSK and CPSK modulations. Other ways in which scintillations can affect a satellite communication link are discussed, and results are also presented showing the seasonal and diurnal variability of the scintillation intensity and long-term correlation with ground temperature.